Blue Zones · Power 9
Right tribe
The world's longest-lived people chose — or were born into — social circles that support healthy behaviours. Okinawans form "moais": groups of friends committed to each other for life.
Seen in: Okinawa (moai), all five
Why it works
Behaviours are contagious: the Framingham studies showed smoking, obesity and even happiness spread through social networks. The right circle makes the healthy choice the default.
What the evidence says
Blue Zones highlights lifelong supportive social circles (the Okinawan moai) as a Power 9 habit; network research shows health behaviours spread socially.
Source: Buettner, Blue Zones Power 9; Christakis & Fowler, Framingham social-network studies.
How to apply it
- Audit your closest circle: do they support the habits you want?
- Spend more time with a few people who move, eat and live well.
- Build or join a small group that meets regularly — your own moai.
Frequently Asked Questions
The other Power 9 habits
See how your own habits add up.
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